Device for passive limb exercise for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation

Abstract

The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation includes a framework (2) with two supports (3) for a user's limbs, and a drive means (20) for horizontally reciprocating the supports (3) in opposite directions on an axis (24) of a box (4) to which the supports (3) are connected, the ends of the box (4) being rotatably connected to side arms (5a) of an inclined frame (5), the supports (3) being a part with removable and replaceable pads (8, 8', 8", 8'"), a box rotation mechanism (9) driven by a handle (10) is provided, and the box (4) is removable and is provided with a rail structure (16) that can be docked to the framework (2) for a wheelchair.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Object of the invention The present invention, as stated in the title of the specification, relates to a passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation, and contributes to this design objective with advantages and features that are subsequently disclosed in detail, which advantages and features represent improvements over the current state of the art.

[0002] The object of the present invention is a device based on a framework with two supports for supporting the upper or lower limbs of a user, linked to drive means that allow the supports to perform a reciprocating horizontal movement in opposite directions with the aim of affecting the muscles of the limbs, the device exhibiting a series of improvements that improve related aspects such as comfort, ease of use and versatility of movement, as well as effects such as muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation effects, and activation of blood and lymph circulation, in particular thanks to the inclusion of supports with interchangeable pads adapted to the anatomical structure of the limbs in different use positions, thanks to the presence of a rotation mechanism for easily moving the supports and fixing them at the required pitch in each use position, thanks to the inclusion of accessories for extending the exercise capacity, and thanks to the inclusion of other elements detailed in the specification; furthermore, the invention also provides improved structural means to facilitate the use of the device by people who use wheelchairs or in specific locations that are particularly useful, such as seats in aircraft or other means of transport.

[0003] Technical Field The field of application of the invention is within the industrial sector dedicated to the manufacture of physiotherapy equipment and the like, focusing in particular on the field of passive exercise equipment applied to muscle relaxation and / or activation and stimulation. [Background technology]

[0004] According to document ES2190724A1, the owner of which is the applicant of the present invention, a machine for muscle relaxation is already known, which is specifically designed to apply an automatic massage to relax the leg muscles without human intervention, and which basically comprises a pair of movable supports associated with drive means, preferably consisting of motors, which move towards and away from each other, the supports being attached to a height-adjustable plate and rotating about a vertical axis.

[0005] Meanwhile, document ES1067066U, owned by the same owner, also describes another muscle relaxation device, which can be used to relax the muscles of the upper and lower limbs using the same principle of moving the support by a reciprocating motion that moves it closer and further away, and this document states that the device is incorporated into a vertical support framework including a tilting frame, the support is fixed to a box, and the tilting frame can be positioned at different heights by pneumatic cylinders or pistons that can be driven via a crankshaft connected by a cable, so that the device can be positioned at different heights and used not only on the upper limbs but also on the lower limbs.

[0006] Also, while the new model devices have fully achieved their goal of being an improvement over their predecessors, there are still aspects that could be improved.

[0007] More specifically, one aspect of this type of currently known device that could be improved concerns the adaptability of the shape of the support on which the user's limbs are placed. Because, depending on the position used, arms and hands, as well as legs and feet, have very different anatomical configurations from each other and are supported in very different ways, if the support is of a fixed configuration, as in the case of the aforementioned device, it may not be comfortable for some positions, or even worse, may not be suitable and may reduce the desired effect. It would therefore be desirable to have available, for each type of position in which the machine is used, a new type of support adapted to receive different models of support pads that fit the anatomical structure of some or other limbs from one position to another.

[0008] Another aspect of the currently existing device that needs to be improved is the support rotation and locking system, which has the necessary pitch for each position, because, again, the correct pitch is a key factor in achieving the desired effect of the device. In the current device, rotation is achieved by screws on each side of the box in which the support is mounted, which is fixed to the tilt frame by screws that are hand-tightened to hold the shaft in place when tightening two hard plastic parts with edges that contact each other. This current solution is not suitable because after a certain period of time (approximately 20 uses), the plastic or hard rubber edges become too weak due to vibration, and the system no longer functions to lock the rotation.

[0009] It would therefore be desirable to have a system that can be modified to easily fix the pitch of the supports without significant effort and / or without requiring the use of screw tightening tools or the like, and that does not deteriorate prematurely with use.

[0010] Similarly, it would be desirable to increase the range of motion that the device can perform to make its function more effective, to allow relaxation and muscle stimulation, to facilitate use by all types of potential users, such as wheelchair users, to provide a means for improving the convenience of use of the device, and / or to adjust the gap in the support so that the device can be carried to the user's location.

[0011] The object of the present invention is therefore to develop a new type of muscle relaxation device, which incorporates in particular improvements and which is not only applicable to the muscular relations of the upper or lower limbs through the massage that they receive by means of reciprocating movements, but also functions as a muscle recovery and stimulation device and for activating blood and lymph circulation, thanks to its applicability in the fields of sports physiotherapy, rehabilitation and sedentarism, injury physiotherapy and sports injuries, or in the field of cosmetology.

[0012] On the other hand, with reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that at least the applicant is not aware of the existence of other devices having the same or similar technical features as those claimed in this specification. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation proposed by the present invention constitutes an appropriate solution to the purpose, the characteristic details which enable and distinguish it are conveniently set out in the final claims attached hereto.

[0014] Specifically, the present invention proposes a device based on a framework with two supports for supporting the upper or lower limbs of a user, as described above, linked to drive means, for example motors, the supports moving reciprocating horizontally in opposite directions on boxes fastened with variable pitch, the boxes being connected to a tilting frame, the height of which is adjustable, preferably via pneumatic pistons, the device exhibiting a series of improvements that improve the effects of muscle relaxation, muscle recovery and stimulation effects, and activation of blood and lymph circulation, as well as related aspects such as comfort, ease of use and convenience.

[0015] More specifically, the device of the present invention is essentially characterized in that, unlike conventional devices in which the support includes an integrated foam coating, it includes, as a support for supporting the limb, a support with a removable padded pad, which advantageously allows the pad to be interchangeable between several different shapes or sizes to suit different needs.

[0016] Furthermore, the support part is preferably connected directly to the box of the tilting frame via two rods, rather than via one rod as in current devices, which prevents the user from unintentionally rotating the support during use.

[0017] For this reason, preferably, each support is formed by a U-shaped configuration, which may be hard plastic or metal, with a generally U-shaped pad fastened via a side pocket that fits into the side wall of the support part, logically the support has a U-shaped configuration large enough to accommodate removable and replaceable pads, the pads being sized to accommodate the user's extremities.

[0018] Preferably, the pad is made of a foam-type soft material, in particular a resilient material of suitable density based on polyurethane or the like. Furthermore, the soft material is preferably covered with an antibacterial lining, such as leather, and is washable and scratch-resistant.

[0019] On the other hand, according to another feature of the present invention, the device includes two, three, four or more pads with different configurations that fit the anatomical structure of the user's lower or upper limbs depending on the position in which the device is used, in order to achieve a relaxing or stimulating massage effect and to make use more comfortable. Thus, the pads having a U-shaped overall configuration as described above have specific shapes on the inner surface of the U-shape that fit the shape of the ankle, foot, leg or forearm, respectively.

[0020] Regarding the characteristics of the device of the present invention, it is important to consider the existence of a rotation mechanism for rotating the box incorporating the limb supports around its longitudinal axis and positioning and fixing it so that both ends are connected to the tilting frame by the upper arms. The rotation mechanism makes it possible to quickly and easily rotate the box and fix it in different positions without having to loosen or tighten screws.

[0021] For this reason, in an optional embodiment, the rotation mechanism includes a metal disk pierced with a series of holes distributed in a circle and regularly adjacent to one edge of the disk, which are sized to receive the ends of the metal bars, thereby locking the rotation of the disk, which is integrally connected to the framework box. The bars are tensile and are pulled out and repositioned by separate handles that move up and down as they are rotated. Thus, by rotating the handles, the box can be rotated to the desired angle, and by returning the handles to their original position (which does not need to be exact), the adjustment of the box's rotation can be completed, and the metal bars will automatically find the nearest hole.

[0022] However, in an alternative embodiment option, the rotation mechanism includes a disc associated with a rotation resistance system instead of a hole, which acts as a permanent brake, clamping the box and preventing it from rotating freely, but when a small amount of force is applied manually, for example via a handle, the box is rotated into the desired position.

[0023] In either case, the rotation mechanism allows for easy orientation of the support around the horizontal axis of the box connected to the upper arm of the framework. The vibrations generated by the device's operation require a suitable rotation system that does not deteriorate over time and is therefore robust and easy to use. Previously known solutions for devices include manually applied screws on each side. When tightened, the edges of two hard plastic parts come into contact to hold the axis in place. This solution is inadequate because, after a certain period of time, the plastic or hard rubber edges become too weak due to vibration, and the system no longer functions to lock the rotation. These problems are solved by the described rotation mechanism. Furthermore, the rotation is adjustable on only one side of the box, rather than both sides, making it easier to use.

[0024] Meanwhile, according to another important feature of the device of the present invention, the framework in which the tilting frame is incorporated with supports fixed to the transverse axis of the box and preferably supported on the bases of the legs on both sides advantageously includes a rail structure that can be docked to the framework, in particular to the legs, to facilitate the use of the device by people using wheelchairs, as the rails are specially designed to receive the wheels of the wheelchair and adjust themselves. Preferably, the structure can be docked and undocked to the legs of the framework in a simple, quick and easy manner, for example by snap-on adjustment of the provided flat bars, so that it can be used only when necessary.

[0025] Meanwhile, according to another important feature of the invention, the box incorporating the movable support for placing the element to be forged is also easily removable, so that the ends of the side arms of the tilting frame can be replaced with other types of support or new supports for cleaning or maintenance work on the support or the drive means incorporated therein, thanks to a simple movement bar system provided on the side, whose axles fit into the ends fixed to the box.

[0026] Next, in an optional embodiment of the present invention, the side arms of the frame have an extendable nature, for example based on telescopic segments, which allows them to be extended forward, i.e. rationally relative to the user's position, allowing for a greater variety of positions for using the device, for example standing, lying down with knees on the support, etc.

[0027] Furthermore, in another embodiment of the device of the present invention, the support on which the arm or leg rests is fixed to the tilted box via an extendable fixing accessory that allows the support to be positioned in different positions and / or angles, thereby providing new possibilities for treatment at slower speeds.

[0028] In another embodiment of the device, the device also includes a drive means for the support, specifically an accessory device associated with the shaft on which the support is mounted and about which the support reciprocates, the accessory being a variable extension offset device that modifies the reciprocating motion of the support by means of a set of eccentric toothed gears, allowing new applications, specifically allowing a wider range of motion of the support while allowing the same range of motion to be initiated from a position closer or further from the user, and also allowing correction of the motion if the selected range is too wide and could result in edge scraping.

[0029] In any event, optionally the device includes an emergency stop button incorporated into one side arm to stop the motor or drive means generating the reciprocating movement of the support whenever required.

[0030] On the other hand, the device preferably includes a belt for facilitating transportation or movement to a desired location, the belt being adapted, for example, to be insertable into a side arm of the frame and to be withdrawable after being placed at a desired location.

[0031] All this allows the device of the invention to have a wider range of applications: indeed, up until now, this type of device has only been used for self-service muscle relaxation and recovery purposes in sports contexts without professional supervision, since the quality of the support did not allow for suitable application in other fields.

[0032] In the case of the device proposed here, the support is designed to incorporate removable and replaceable pads with a specific design, the rotation mechanism for positioning and fixing the pitch of the support, and thanks to the structural improvements in the convenience and positioning of the support, the device can accurately transmit movement to the target area of ​​the limb according to speed, angle and height, so that the movement obtained from the device alone is also suitable for other fields of application.

[0033] Furthermore, the device preferably includes an electronic card (main PCB) as a control element for the reciprocating drive means of the support, allowing evolution to a follow-up and user profiling system, as well as a remote control knob with a touch-sensitive cable or which may be wireless.

[0034] More specifically, the electronic control of the device is programmable by remote control using specific software, which allows to perform different types of exercises as well as to integrate user profiles.

[0035] For this reason, the remote control software preferably includes at least: A speed change algorithm according to a defined period, such as 1 minute at 50% speed, 1 minute at 80% speed, etc. A continuous linear speed change algorithm, such as gradually increasing the speed from 25% to 80% within 5 minutes, then from 80% to 20%, etc. and a speed change algorithm depending on the position of the support, for example 80% speed when the movement is out of alignment and 25% speed when the movement is approaching.

[0036] Alternatively, the remote control may be optionally integrated into one side arm of the device for easy access by the user.

[0037] Similarly, to optimally control the effectiveness of the exercise, the device optionally incorporates force sensors in the supports on which the user places their arms or legs, which monitor resistance in real time and apply speed corrections.

[0038] Then, thanks to the information obtained by the sensors, the electronic control includes in its software a program for force training of weak muscles, such as calibrating the motors to resist the effort of abduction or adduction of the legs or arms.

[0039] Below are given examples of approaches in new fields of application that the device of the invention can take, which were not possible under reasonable conditions until now.

[0040] In the field of sports physiotherapy, the movements generated by the device can be applied during training sessions to optimize muscle recovery or prepare the athlete for warm-up etc. Therefore, there is a follow-up and integration in professional training programs. Doing it without the right pads is not appropriate.

[0041] In the context of rehabilitation and sedentarism, the exercises generated by the device are applied to people who need stimulation of muscles, nerves and circulation (mainly of the legs in the context of rehabilitation and sedentarism). The legs become stiff and weak due to lack of exercise. Follow-up is carried out by a medical professional.

[0042] In the field of disability physiotherapy and sports injuries, the exercises generated by the device are applied to people with paraplegic disabilities. The legs are immobile and are exposed to pathologies that require appropriate treatment. The device promotes blood and lymphatic circulation in the legs and thighs, improves intestinal passage and relieves nerve pain. Even when moving around in a wheelchair, the arms are very tense, and when sitting, the arm position helps to recover from exertion.

[0043] In the aesthetic field, the movements generated by the device are applied in cellulite reduction programs, primarily on the thighs, then on the buttocks and legs, and finally on the arms. Results are visible after at least eight sessions, two times a week.

[0044] Finally, it should be noted that the framework of the device presents different options of size and configuration, designed in each case for use in different fields or for different types of establishments or for use by users.

[0045] Therefore, in a variation of the embodiment, the device may have a simple and compact framework in which the tilting frame does not include pistons for adjusting the height.

[0046] Also, in another variant of the embodiment, the framework, instead of a base with legs that rest on the floor, simply comprises vertical struts to which the frame arms are directly connected, between which the box is clamped with movable supports, allowing its height to be changed only in the vertical plane, and struts are provided for fixing the frame arms to a wall or another vertical surface.

[0047] This option is particularly suitable for incorporating devices in aircraft or other means of transport in front of seats, for example to prevent problems associated with poor blood circulation due to lack of exercise during long journeys (venous thrombosis or phlebitis, pulmonary embolism due to phlebitis, etc.). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] To supplement the ongoing description and to facilitate a best understanding of the features of the present invention, the following are shown, by way of example and not by way of limitation, in the drawings attached hereto as an integral part thereof:

[0049] [Figure 1] 1 shows a highly schematic perspective view of an example of a passive limb exercise device of the present invention shown with a support without padding so that the construction can be observed. [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a remote control containing the device of the invention and for controlling its drive means; [Figure 3] 1 shows a perspective view of an example of one type of replaceable pad for the support of the device, with different shapes to fit the anatomy of the limb in different positions of use of the machine. [Figure 4] 1 shows a perspective view of an example of one type of replaceable pad for the support of the device, with different shapes to fit the anatomy of the limb in different positions of use of the machine. [Figure 5] 1 shows a perspective view of an example of one type of replaceable pad for the support of the device, with different shapes to fit the anatomy of the limb in different positions of use of the machine. [Figure 6] 5 shows a perspective cross-sectional view along section AA of one replaceable pad of the device of the present invention, specifically the pad shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a rotation mechanism including a device for rotating and fixing the position of a box incorporating a support, in particular an example comprising a perforated disk. [Figure 8] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in a position when in use to exercise the lower limbs, with the user facing downwards and with the feet resting on a support for support. [Figure 9] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in a position when in use to exercise the lower limbs, with the user facing up and with the calves resting on a supportive support. [Figure 10]1 shows a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in a position when in use to exercise the upper limbs, with the user sitting in front of the device and placing their forearms on a support. [Figure 11] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in a position when in use to exercise the lower limbs, with the user sitting in front of the device and placing their knees on the supports for support. [Figure 12] 2 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of an apparatus of the present invention including a rail structure for wheelchairs, a conveyor belt and other elements similar to that shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 13] 8 shows a schematic perspective view of another example of a rotation mechanism including a device including a disk with a permanent braking system similar to that shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 14] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of an extensible fastening accessory that includes a device that allows the support of a box to be fastened in different positions. [Figure 15] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an accessory in an example of a support accessory variable extension and reciprocating offset device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] Viewing the accompanying figures will reveal non-limiting examples of embodiments of the passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation of the present invention, including those detailed and explained below according to the figures utilized.

[0051] Thus, as can be seen from the figures, the device (1) of the present invention comprises, in a known manner, a framework (2) incorporating two supports (3) for supporting the upper or lower limbs of a user. The supports (3) are moved horizontally in opposite directions, thanks to drive means (20), e.g., motors, on the longitudinal axis (24) of a box (4) to which the supports (3) are connected. The box (4) rotates on its longitudinal axis and is rotatably connected at its ends to side arms (5a) of a tilting frame (5), thereby making it possible to adjust the pitch and position of the support (3) depending on the position and limb for which the device is used. In one embodiment, the tilting frame (5) has pneumatic pistons (6) that can raise its position on legs (7) that define the support base of the framework (2) on the floor, as shown by way of example in Figures 1 and 12. However, in other embodiments, not shown, the framework (2) may simply comprise vertical columns to which the side arms (5a) of the tilting frame (5) are fixed.

[0052] In any case, the device (1) of the present invention is essentially distinguished from known configurations in the following respects: the support (3) is formed by parts adapted to receive removable and replaceable pads (8, 8', 8", 8'"); the device has a rotation mechanism (9) driven simply by a side handle (10) to rotate and fix the box (4) in which the support (3) is integrated, and to position the support (3) at the pitch required in each case; the box (4) can be easily pulled out from its fixed position at the end of the side arm (5a) of the titling frame (5) thanks to the presence of a movement bar (4a) (shown in Figure 12) provided on the side of the box (4); the device includes a rail structure (16) that can be docked to the framework (2) to facilitate the use of the device (1) by people using wheelchairs.

[0053] Furthermore, in an optional embodiment, the side arms (5a) of the frame (5) are extensible, for example because they are formed by telescopically extendable segments.

[0054] Meanwhile, the components constituting each of the two supports (3) of the device are connected to the box (4) of the tilting frame (5) either directly via two rods (not shown) to prevent the user from unintentionally rotating the support (3) during use, or via an extensible fixing accessory (17) which allows the support (13) to be fixed at different angles and distances relative to the box (4), as shown in Figure 14.

[0055] In any case, preferably, each of the supports (3) is formed by a U-shaped component, and a pad (8, 8', 8", 8'") having a generally U-shaped configuration is fastened to each of the supports (3) so as to be easily removable via a side pocket (8b) provided in the pad and fitting into the side wall of the support part (3).

[0056] Preferably, all pads (8, 8', 8", 8'") are made of elastic material based on polyurethane or the like. Furthermore, preferably, the soft material is covered with an antibacterial lining, such as leather, and is washable and scratch resistant.

[0057] Preferably, the device (1) includes two, three, or four or more pads (8, 8', 8", 8'") that conform to the anatomical structure of the user's lower or upper limbs depending on the position in which the device is used, and that have different shapes of the inner surface (8a) of the U-shaped configuration. Specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the device (1) includes at least a first pad (8) shaped to conform to the foot, a second pad (8') shaped to conform to the leg, a third pad (8") shaped to conform to the forearm, and a fourth pad (not shown) shaped to conform to the knee.

[0058] Preferably, when the device (1) is used in a prone position (Fig. 8), i.e., face down, to exercise the lower limbs supported by the feet, the first pad (8) conforms to the foot so that the shape of its inner surface (8a) matches the top of the foot and its base presents an off-centered half-moon shape (Fig. 3).

[0059] Preferably, when the device (1) is used in the supine position (FIG. 9), i.e., face up, to move the lower part of the leg and the lower part of the leg supported by the foot, the second pad (8') includes two side projections (8c) so that the inner surface (8a) conforms to the leg, and the side projections (8c) are reinforced with wood or hard plastic plates to change the direction of movement of the leg upstream without excessive leg movement (FIGS. 4 and 6).

[0060] Preferably, when using the device (1) in a seated position to exercise the upper limbs (Fig. 10), the inner surface (8a) of the third pad (8") conforms to the forearm in a triangular shape (Fig. 5) that already holds the elbow and hand in place, slightly extending the fingers, relaxing the forearm and wrist and better spreading the exercise to the arm, back and shoulder.

[0061] Also preferably, when the device (1) is used in a seated position to exercise the lower limbs (FIG. 11), the inner surface (8a) of the fourth pad (8'") conforms to the knee in order to recreate the generally spherical shape of the bent knee and distribute the movement to the thigh and leg.

[0062] On the other hand, an optional embodiment is shown in Figure 7. The rotation mechanism (9) allows the tiltable box (4) with the support (3) to be rotated and quickly and easily fixed in different positions. The rotation mechanism (9) includes a perforated metal disk (11) with a series of holes (12) distributed at regular intervals around a circle near one edge of the disk. These holes (12) are sized to receive the end of a retractable metal bar (13) via a handle (10), which serves to lock the rotation of the disk (11), which is integrally connected to the rotation axis of the box (4). The bar (13) can be removed and repositioned by operating the handle (10), which protrudes outward through one of the arms of the tilt frame (5) to which the end of the box (4) is fixed. By rotating this handle (10), the bar (13) can be moved up or down, allowing the box (4) to be tilted to the desired angle. When the handle (10) is returned to its original position and the rotation of the box (4) is adjusted, the metal bar (13) automatically finds the hole (12) closest to the disc (11) and locks the movement of the box (4) and its own movement at the desired position.

[0063] Another option for the embodiment is shown in Figure 13. The rotation mechanism (9) rotates the box (4) in which the support (3) is tiltably mounted, allowing it to be quickly and easily fixed in different positions. The rotation mechanism (9) includes a disk (11) integrally connected to the rotation axis of the box (4) and associated with a permanent brake (18). When a slight force is applied manually, for example via the handle (10), the disk (11) rotates, which in turn rotates the box (4) to the desired position.

[0064] Referring to Figure 12, it is shown how to do this. Preferably, a rail structure (16) is dockable to the framework (2) of the device (1) for a wheelchair. The rail structure (16) can be docked and undocked to the base legs (7) of the framework (2) by snap-on adjustment of the provided flat bars (16a). The rail (16) is formed by two parallel profiles emerging from the front of the device (1), which have a gap corresponding to the gap between the wheels to receive the wheels of the wheelchair between them.

[0065] In an embodiment option, how this can be done is shown in Figure 15. The device (1) comprises an accessory (19) associated with a drive means (20) of the support (3) in a box (4), the accessory (19) constituting a variable extension offset device for the reciprocating motion generated by the drive means (20). To this end, the accessory (19) preferably essentially comprises a gear system formed by a pinion (21) linked to the shaft of the motor constituting the drive means (20), the pinion (21) meshing with a toothed crown (22) in which the rotating circular end (23) of the longitudinal shaft (24) is inserted eccentrically into the box (4), in which the support (3) is fixed via a socket (25), so that in addition to the reciprocating motion, a translational motion with a wider or narrower range can be generated.

[0066] Preferably, the device (1) further comprises an emergency stop button (26) integrated into one side arm (5a) for stopping the drive means (20).

[0067] Preferably, the device (1) includes a belt (27) to facilitate its transportation, and in a preferred embodiment, the belt (27) is retractably inserted into the side arm (5a) of the frame (5), as shown in FIG. 12.

[0068] Finally, preferably, the drive means (20) of the support (3) reciprocating on the box (4) is linked to a control knob (14), which may be a physical or remote control connection by cable (15) as shown in Figure 2, or a wireless connection, which may be a knob integrated into one side arm (5a) of the tilting frame (5). In any case, the control knob (14) is preferably a programmable electronic device with specific software allowing different operating options.

[0069] Furthermore, the device (1) preferably includes one or more force sensors (28) integrated into the support (3) and connected to transmit information to the electronic control knob (14) software in order to adapt the operating program of the drive means (20) to the force applied by the user.

[0070] On the other hand, the motion drive means (20) of the support (3) and the disk (11) of the rotation mechanism (9) are housed and hidden within the box (4).

[0071] The essence and implementation manner of the present invention have been fully described, and it is believed that no further expansion is necessary for those skilled in the art to understand the scope of the present invention and the resulting advantages.

Claims

1. A framework (2) having two supports (3) for supporting the upper and lower limbs of a user, 1. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation, wherein the supports undergo reciprocating horizontal movement in opposite directions on the longitudinal axis (24) of the box (4) to which they are connected thanks to drive means (20), and the supports are rotatable about said axis and their height is adjustable since their ends are rotatably connected to the side arms (5a) of a tilting frame (5), the tilting frame (5) having or not pistons (6) that allow to raise its position on the legs (7) of a framework (2), a support (3) formed by parts adapted to receive removable and replaceable pads (8, 8', 8", 8'"); the device has a rotation mechanism (9) driven simply by a side handle (10) to rotate and fix the box (4) incorporating the support (3) and to position the support (3) at the required pitch in each case; the box (4) can be easily pulled out from its fixed position at the end of the side arm (5a) of the tilting frame (5) thanks to the presence of an exercise bar (4a) provided on the side of the box (4); and the device includes a rail structure (16) that can be docked on the framework (2) to facilitate the use of the device (1) by a person using a wheelchair.

2. 2. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 1, characterized in that the side arms (5a) of the framework (5) are extensible.

3. 3. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the components constituting each of the two supports (3) of the device are connected to the box (4) of the tilting frame (5) either directly via two rods or via extensible fixing accessories (17) that allow the supports (13) to be fixed at different angles and distances relative to the box (4).

4. 4. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each of the supports (3) is formed by a U-shaped component, and a pad (8, 8', 8", 8'") having a roughly U-shaped configuration is fastened to each of the supports (3) so as to be easily removable via a side pocket (8b) provided on the pad and fitted into a side wall of the support part.

5. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the pads (8, 8, 8, 8') are made of a washable, scratch-resistant elastic material based on polyurethane or the like, covered with an antibacterial lining such as leather.

6. 6. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that it comprises two, three or four or more pads (8, 8', 8", 8'") with different shapes of inner surfaces (8a) of a U-shaped configuration, adapted to the anatomical structure of the user's lower or upper limbs depending on the position in which the device is used.

7. 7. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that the device is used in a prone position and includes a first pad (8) having a shape adapted to the foot to exercise the lower limb supported by the foot, the first pad (8) having an inner surface (8a) that matches the top of the foot and an off-centered half-moon shape at its base.

8. 7. The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 6, characterized in that the device (1) is used in a supine position and includes a second pad (8') having a shape adapted to the leg to move the lower limb, and the inner surface (8a) of the second pad (8') includes two side protrusions (8c) reinforced with wood or hard plastic plates.

9. 7. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 6, characterized in that the device (1) is used in a sitting position and includes a third pad (8") for moving the upper limbs, the inner surface (8a) of the third pad (8") being triangular and adapted to fit the forearm.

10. 7. The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to claim 6, characterized in that the device (1) is used in a sitting position and includes a fourth pad (8'") for moving the lower limbs, the inner surface (8a) of the fourth pad (8'") being approximately spherical and conforming to the knee.

11. 11. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the rotation mechanism (9) comprises a disk (11) with circularly distributed holes (12) drilled all over, the holes (12) being sized to receive ends of a bar (13), the bar (13) being retractable via a handle (10) that locks the rotation of the disk (11), the disk (11) being integrally connected to the axis of the box (4), and the handle (10) protruding outward.

12. 11. The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the rotation mechanism (9) includes a disk (11) integrally coupled to the rotation axis of the box (4) and associated with a permanent brake (18), and when a force is manually applied, the disk (11) rotates.

13. 13. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the rail structure (16) can be docked and undocked to the legs (7) of the base of the framework (2) by snap-on adjustment of the provided flat bars (16a), the rail (16) being formed by two parallel profiles emerging from the front of the device (1), the two parallel profiles having a gap corresponding to the gap between the wheels to receive the wheels of a wheelchair between them.

14. 14. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises an accessory (19) associated with the drive means (20) of the support (3) in the box (4), said accessory (19) constituting a variable extension offset device for the reciprocating motion generated by the drive means (20).

15. 15. The passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it comprises an emergency stop button (26) for stopping the driving means (20).

16. 16. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it comprises a conveyor belt (27) retractably inserted into the side arm (5a) of the frame (5).

17. 17. A passive limb exercise device for muscle recovery, relaxation or stimulation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive means (20) are linked to a control knob (14) consisting of a programmable electronic device with specific software allowing different operating options.

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